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Salem Today
By the People, for the People
New England Athletes Shine as Team USA Wins Women's Ice Hockey Gold
Alex Carpenter and Caroline Harvey lead Team USA to victory over Canada in thrilling overtime finish.
Published on Feb. 28, 2026
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In a dramatic overtime victory, the United States women's ice hockey team defeated Canada 2-1 to win the gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The win marks the first gold medal for a New England athlete at these games, with Massachusetts native Alex Carpenter and New Hampshire's Caroline Harvey playing key roles in the triumph.
Why it matters
The success of Carpenter and Harvey represents a major accomplishment for New England athletes, who have historically struggled to break through at the highest levels of winter sports. Their gold medal win will inspire the next generation of young hockey players from the region and showcase the talent that the area can produce.
The details
Carpenter, a forward, and Harvey, a defender, were instrumental in leading Team USA to the gold medal. Harvey was named the tournament's most valuable player and best defender, while Carpenter scored the team's first goal of the competition. The thrilling overtime victory against Canada capped off an impressive run for the American squad.
- The gold medal game took place on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
- Harvey was named tournament MVP and best defender on February 20, 2026.
The players
Alex Carpenter
A forward from North Reading, Massachusetts, who played a key role in Team USA's gold medal victory.
Caroline Harvey
A defender from Salem, New Hampshire, who was named the tournament's most valuable player and best defender.
Ben Ogden
The first New Englander to win a silver medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
What they’re saying
“Not only is that an incredible feat, but it also marks the first gold medal in these winter games for a New England athlete.”
— Sean McKenna, Author (wokq.com)
“For Harvey, the New Hampshire standout, and Carpenter, a Massachusetts star, the achievement reflects years of hard work at the highest level of the sport.”
— Sean McKenna, Author (wokq.com)
What’s next
As the 2026 Winter Olympics continue, all eyes will be on whether any additional New England athletes can follow in the footsteps of Carpenter and Harvey and bring home more gold medals for the region.
The takeaway
The gold medal win by Carpenter and Harvey is a testament to the talent and dedication of New England athletes, and serves as an inspiration for the next generation of young hockey players from the region to strive for greatness on the international stage.
